Update: Premier League official retiring this weekend despite seven games of season remaining News

A Premier League official who has been synonymous with the top-flight for many years will retire this weekend, with Manchester City’s clash against Crystal Palace marked down as his final match

Premier League assistant referee Darren Cann is set to retire this weekend, marking the end of a career that has spanned nearly 600 top-tier matches.

Cann, who began his officiating journey at the age of 22, quickly ascended to the pinnacle of professional officiating. Since his start in 1991, the 56-year-old has presided over more than 1,000 games across various leagues and tournaments, making him the longest-serving match official in the Premier League.

The Norfolk-born assistant notably played a key role in the 2010 World Cup final, appearing alongside current PGMOL Chief Refereeing Officer Howard Webb in South Africa.

However, after years of patrolling the sidelines in England’s top division, Manchester City’s home game against Crystal Palace at the Etihad on Saturday will mark his 579th and final fixture before he waves goodbye.

“It’s been the privilege of my life to serve the game that I love. Officiating the World Cup final and the Champions League final are memories I will cherish forever,” confessed Cann, who will retire with seven games remaining in this Premier League season.

“But, above all, I’m proud of the fact I’ve given 100 per cent in every single match throughout my career… this Saturday will be my 579th – and final – Premier League match. It’s been an honour to serve the professional game for the last 25 years.”

Cann is set to run the line this Saturday, teaming up with referee Jarred Gillett and fellow assistant Ian Hussin in Manchester, before hanging up his flags – a journey that began in the Premier League back in 2005.

Before joining the top tier, Cann refined his skills for roughly four years in the English Football League and has since been a regular in refereeing international and domestic matches.

His portfolio features momentous games like the World Cup final between Spain and the Netherlands in 2010. Cann also officiated at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and Euro 2008, reports Football London.

Cann’s experience includes also appearances at the FIFA Confederations Cup, the FIFA U20 World Cup, and the FIFA U17 World Cup – and his long-standing dedication has earned him high praise from former colleague and current PGMOL chief Webb.

Webb, who took over as Cann’s boss at PGMOL in 2022, remarked: “Darren’s career has been nothing short of exceptional. As I know first-hand from working with Darren on many matches, he is an official of extraordinary talent.

“He has performed at the very highest level with distinction. His professionalism and dedication have made him an outstanding ambassador for English officiating.

“We wish him all the very best as he steps away from the field – though we’re sure his impact will continue to be felt for many years to come.”